During the second and final day of the IPL mega auction in Jeddah, Vaibhav Suryavanshi made history at just 13 years and 8 months old, becoming the youngest cricketer ever to be picked by an IPL franchise. Rajasthan Royals secured him for Rs 1.10 crore, stunning his family and fans alike.
Sanjiv Suryavanshi, Vaibhav’s father, who sold his farmland in Bihar to fund his son’s cricket dreams, was overwhelmed with emotion. “Woh ab sirf humra bituwa nahi pura Bihar ka bituwa hai (He is not just my son now but the son of all of Bihar),” Sanjiv told PTI over the phone, while Vaibhav is currently playing in Dubai for the U-19 Asia Cup.
Reflecting on their journey, Sanjiv shared how his son began excelling in cricket at the age of 8, performing well in U-16 district trials.
“My son has worked hard. At the age of 8 years, he excelled at U-16 district trials. I would take him for his cricket coaching to Samastipur and then take him back,”
he said.
Sanjiv also spoke candidly about the financial sacrifices they made to support Vaibhav’s cricketing ambitions.
“It’s not just an investment; it’s a huge investment. Aapko kya bataye humne toh apna zameen tak bech diya. Abhi bhi halat pura sudhra nahi (It’s not just investment, it’s a big investment. I even sold my land. Financial issues are still there),”
he revealed.
Amid rumors about Vaibhav’s age, with some speculating that he is actually 15, Sanjiv was quick to defend his son.
“When he was 8 and half years old he first appeared for a BCCI bone test. He has already played India U-19. We don’t fear anyone. He can again undergo age test,”
Sanjiv stated confidently.
Sanjiv also credited the support of Rakesh Tiwary, President of the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA), for playing a crucial role in Vaibhav’s development. “Rakesh ji ka ashirwaad raha hai bahoot (Rakesh ji’s blessings have been invaluable),” he said.
Vaibhav’s journey to the IPL auction was marked by a thrilling bidding war. His base price was set at Rs 30 lakh, with Delhi Capitals making the first bid. Rajasthan Royals eventually secured him, outbidding DC after a tense contest.
Describing the trials in Nagpur, Sanjiv shared with pride, “Rajasthan Royals had called him for trials, and during one match situation, he had to score 17 runs in an over. He hit 3 sixes. In the full trial, he scored 8 sixes and 4 fours.”
Despite his newfound fame and fortune, Vaibhav remains focused on his passion for cricket. “He just wants to play cricket. A few years ago, he loved watching Doraemon, but not anymore,” said his father, emphasizing that Vaibhav is not yet concerned with money.
The BCA president, Rakesh Tiwary, praised Vaibhav’s remarkable achievement, saying, “Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s incredible achievement at such a young age fills us with immense pride.”
Tiwary also expressed his belief in Vaibhav’s future, stating that the BCA has always been committed to nurturing young talent in Bihar, and Vaibhav’s success reflects the potential of cricket in the region.
